“Home” means something different for refugees like me, {NAME}.

[3x Match Active] [3x MATCH ACTIVE]( [MATCH OFFER:ACTIVE MAKE 3X THE IMPACT RIGHT NOW >>]( [Shir Zad Sarbaz]( {NAME}, As a resettled refugee myself — from Afghanistan — and now an IRC caseworker welcoming other families to the U.S., I know firsthand the impact your donation can have. [That's why I'm asking you to make a tax-deductible donation to the IRC before this 3x match opportunity expires.]( To me, home is so much more than four walls around you. It's a feeling of belonging and being cared for. Many of us get to experience that feeling this time of year, gathering with friends and family and celebrating a spirit of kindness and generosity. Around the world, too many children and families no longer have a home to return to, or are spending this winter season exposed to the elements. But they do have hope for a better future, thanks to your generosity. The first time I walked into my new apartment in New Jersey I was reminded that I was not alone. Even though it's so different from what I left in Afghanistan, I felt cared for knowing my new place was made possible because people like you gave their generous support. {NAME}, it means a lot to know there are people like you who care about refugees, and I am so thankful. [I hope you’ll consider giving the gift of safety and hope to other refugees while your support goes 3x as far.]( Leaving Afghanistan was harrowing. There was a moment I was stopped and searched — I was sure I would be killed. All I could do was pray to God. But I was eventually able to leave. I had just one bag and a change of clothes with me. I didn't know what to expect when I arrived in the U.S., but the kindness of the IRC and others welcoming refugees really stood out to me. What many people don't know is how crucial your generosity is — without the IRC's support, I would have struggled to get everything I needed to rebuild my life. But support from people like you helped me build a new home from nothing. I was amazed at that kindness and it's why I became so passionate about staying involved with the IRC. I hope anybody with the means will support the IRC — especially during times like these. Children and families in Afghanistan and other crises around the world are facing plunging temperatures and harsh winter conditions without adequate shelter or heat. [Make a tax-deductible gift to help 3x the people with stories like mine: help.rescue.org/donate/limited-time-3x-match-giving-tuesday-2023]( I hope you'll help give the feeling of home to a family like mine before the year ends. Thank you again for all you do. Shir Zad Sarbaz | شیرزاد سرباز Resettlement Caseworker International Rescue Committee The International Rescue Committee | [Rescue.org]( 122 East 42nd Street, New York, New York 10168-1289 USA To ensure future delivery of IRC e-mails, please add our reply address updates@rescue.org to your Address Book. [Click here]( for U.S. federal and state compliance notices [Manage my preferences]( or [unsubscribe](